Research Ireland – Gas Networks Ireland Innovation Challenge 2025

Innovation Challenge 2025

Gas Networks Ireland and Research Ireland have launched a €2.7 million Innovation Challenge to accelerate Ireland’s transition to a low carbon energy future. This initiative supports cutting-edge research in renewable gas, energy system integration, and artificial intelligence, with the goal of decarbonising the national gas network.

Programme details

Total funding

Funding of €2.7 million available as part of the programme

Top prize

€1 million for the most transformative solution

Eligibility

Multidisciplinary research teams from Irish institutions

Engineers at an AGI

Challenge Theme 1 - Energy System Integration

  • Integration of renewable gases at local and regional levels

  • AI-driven diagnostics for intelligent gas network performance

Biomethane AD Plant

Challenge Theme 2 - Biomethane & Biohydrogen

  • Enhancing efficiency and commercial viability of biomethane and biohydrogen production

  • Innovations in byproduct extraction and utilisation

Further information

  • Concept Phase (6 months): Up to €50,000 for idea development
  • Seed Phase (12 months): Up to €150,000 for feasibility and prototyping
  • Prize Phase (up to 24 months): €1 million for full-scale development

Funding for this initiative is provided by Research Ireland and Gas Networks Ireland.  The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) has approved innovation funding for Gas Networks Ireland under a regulatory allowance framework.

 

This challenge aligns with Ireland’s national climate goals and supports the development of scalable, STEM-based solutions for a sustainable energy future. It empowers Irish research talent to contribute meaningfully to climate action and energy innovation.

“A significant investment in the future of Ireland’s energy system.”
- Bobby Gleeson, COO, Gas Networks Ireland

The call for applications is now open to eligible research teams across Ireland.

Full details are available here: Research Ireland Gas Networks Ireland Innovation Challenge - Research Ireland.

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Innovation Challenge Open Days

Gas Networks Ireland recently hosted two open days as part of the Research Ireland – Gas Networks Ireland Innovation Challenge, a €2.7 million initiative supporting breakthrough research in renewable gas, energy system integration and AI.

 

These events provided researchers with the opportunity to engage directly with subject matter experts, ask questions, and receive guidance on aligning their proposals with the scope of the challenge.